Faizan dedicates run to armed forces, martyrs and drug-free youth campaign

Faizan Ahmed Faiz, a third-semester Psychology student at Government College University (GCU) Lahore, on Friday morning flagged off a staggering 1,100-kilometer run to Skardu, starting from the historic Clock Tower of the university.

The GCU athlete has dedicated his endeavor to Pakistan’s security forces and the nation’s martyrs. Through his campaign, he also hopes to broadcast a powerful anti-drug message to the country’s youth.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Omer Chaudhry, members of the sports directorate, police and rescue 1122 officials, and a large number of university students gathered on both sides of the road around the historic Clock Tower to wave off Faizan as he embarked on his ambitious journey aimed at establishing a new national record. The proud parents and other family members of Faizan were also present.

The Vice Chancellor wished the best of luck to the young athlete, saying, "Faizan carries the prayers, spirit, and unyielding support of his alma mater every step of the way. We are immensely proud of his ambition and wish our student-athlete unwavering strength on the road to Skardu."

A seasoned athlete, who is also a sports ambassador of Punjab government, has been running for the past eight years. Just three months ago, he successfully completed an 800-kilometer run.

As per the planned route, Faizan will cover between 60 to 100 kilometers each day. His path weaves through the country's heartland and majestic northern terrains, with scheduled stops in Gujranwala, Wazirabad, Jhelum, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad. From the capital, he will ascend towards the challenging altitudes of Nathia Gali and Babusar Top, before making his final descent into the Skardu valley.

"I want to motivate our people, whether they are young or old, to eliminate drug use and prioritize their physical well-being. By embracing a healthy lifestyle, we can fill our sports grounds and reduce the burden on our hospitals," Faizan said, while dedicating his endeavor to Pakistan’s security forces and the nation’s martyrs.

Faizan’s family, present at the starting line, echoed their sentiments of immense pride. His father thanked the university administration for motivating and facilitating his son’s athletic ambitions. His mother offered her blessings: "I am incredibly happy and proud that my son is embarking on this mission to bring honor to our country and nation," she told reporters, appealing to the other students to keep Faizan in their prayers during his perilous journey.

GCU Director of Sports Waseem Akhtar said, "If successful, Faizan’s 1,100-kilometer trek will not only ink a new chapter in Pakistan's sports history but also serve as a lasting beacon of health, resilience, and national pride."